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Criminal charges

carjacking

Carjacking is a type of robbery in which the criminal uses force or the threat of force to take possession and control of an automobile—usually when the victim is inside or near the automobile. Carjacking laws vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state’s penal code. Carjacking is also a federal crime when the stolen vehicle is transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce (generally, transported across state lines).

In Missouri, carjacking is considered a form of robbery and is covered under the state's robbery statutes. Specifically, it is addressed under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 569.020, which defines robbery in the first degree, and Section 569.030, which defines robbery in the second degree. Carjacking would typically fall under first-degree robbery, which occurs when a person forcibly steals property and in the course of committing the theft, they cause serious physical injury to any person or are armed with a deadly weapon or display what appears to be a weapon or deadly instrument. Carjacking is a serious felony offense in Missouri and can result in significant prison time. Additionally, under federal law, carjacking becomes a federal crime if the stolen vehicle is transported across state lines, as per the Federal Carjacking Prevention Act, which can lead to federal charges with severe penalties, including imprisonment.

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Criminal charges

carjacking

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Missouri State Code

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Criminal charges

carjacking

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